Unknown Greece: Mani is a Vacation Gem

A hidden gem in Greece is the Mani region. There, in the south of the Peloponnese peninsula, travelers can enjoy hiking or even swimming in the fall, away from the mass tourism.

Rugged, wild, arid, and still spared from mass tourism - that's how you can describe the Mani region in the south of the Greek Peloponnese peninsula. The landscape is characterized by mighty mountain ranges, dense deciduous forests, narrow beaches in small bays, and picturesque mountain villages with ancient ruins and numerous defense towers.

Just as rugged as the nature is the history of this area. Clan wars and the code of vendetta persisted here until the 20th century as people fought for the most fertile lands. At the same time, the Mani region is considered the only one in Greece that was never fully ruled by foreign powers. The nearly windowless residential towers for defense still bear witness to that.

Many of these towers have now been converted into hotels to welcome tourists. However, the peninsula is not well-known as a vacation destination, even though the sea is still over 20 degrees Celsius in the fall. Bordered by the Messenian and Laconian Gulfs and warmed by the Greek sun, a beach vacation is still possible in October.

Only a few places in Mani are of tourist significance. These include Kardamyli at the foot of the Taygetus mountains, the seaside resort of Stoupa with its extensive sandy beaches popular with package tourists, and the capital Areopoli. We introduce you to some places you must see.

Despite having only around 1,000 residents, Areopoli is considered the main settlement of Inner Mani. Small cafés and taverns line the main street. Nearly all life takes place in the city square with the monument to the local hero Petros Mavromichalis. Also worth seeing is the small stone church with a bell tower.

The picturesque port of Limeni, south of Areopoli, combines Mani's architecture with the blue sea and delicious food. All around the shore, there are taverns with tables positioned on stone platforms near the crystal-clear water. Although there is no beach, the rocks are perfect for sunbathing.

A boat ride through a cavern complex is possible in the Diros Caves. The cave near Pyrgos Dirou contains its own lake. During a paid tour lasting about 40 minutes, visitors walk through narrow passes and take a boat ride through a cave. In the 15,400-meter-long cave formation at the edge of Mani, just beyond the town of Areopoli, you can discover impressive rock formations and stalactites of various shapes and colors.

A true insider tip, however, is the Katafygi cave. This nearly unknown cave stretches from Agios Dimitrios for several kilometers underground and is great for a small adventure. However, it offers no infrastructure. When visiting, you should wear sturdy footwear, bring at least two flashlights and spare batteries, and inform someone of your visit before you go.

The southernmost point of the Greek mainland is the lighthouse at Cape Tenaro. Since there is no shade along the roughly two-kilometer path, you should bring a lot of water, especially in the summer months. The unique feature of the path to the southern tip of Mani: The roads become narrower, the landscape increasingly barren, and the towers of the Maniots taller. However, no higher than 20 meters, as this height is fixed by law, according to "Peloponnes.Insel-Leben".

There, deep in the south, you can take solitary walks through the rugged nature without being significantly disturbed by others. There are hardly any tourists or locals. The path passes by rocky bays, mountains, and a ruin with mosaics from Hellenistic times. Near a parking area close to the lighthouse, the niche of a ruined church offers a place to honor the god Poseidon with candles.

Close to the cape, one of the few sandy beaches in the region attracts visitors. The beach in Marmári features two large sandy bays with shallow waters, surrounded by rocky hills.

The Mani Peninsula is also known for its many beautiful hiking trails, particularly in the north of Mani around Kardamili. You can hike through green deciduous forests and along mighty mountain ranges.

For instance, you can embark on a relatively long round tour into the mountains with great views and secluded mountain villages. The route takes you 30 kilometers over seldom-traveled roads and a beautiful gorge to and from Kardamili.

The small town is located at the foot of the Taygetus mountains. Although its historic center is nearly entirely abandoned, the town's small harbor is very lively. There, taverns and cafés compete for travelers who linger there daily during the high season. One small attraction worth hiking to is the crumbling church Agia Sophia. It is located above the town.

Looking for more inspiration? Then check out our other Peloponnese tips. Find the best travel deals on our deal page.

Travel Reporter